Bus terminus delayed; commuters irked | Hubballi News

Dharwad: Delaying the completion of an ongoing project not only increases costs but also causes significant inconvenience to the public.The re-development of City Bus Terminus (CBT) in Akkipet of Dharwad, the work of which started in Jan 2024 is getting delayed inordinately and has forced the commuters to rely on temporary transit stops scattered across the city. In the absence of a centralised bus station, passengers face significant difficulties while commuting, especially from makeshift stops located behind LEA Canteen and near Kittel College. Commuters are often compelled to walk long distances or hire autorickshaws to reach key locations such as the city market.The plans for re-development of CBT into a hi-tech facility in the heart of the city was initiated years ago and the work started last year. Taking advantage of the situation, autorickshaw and tum-tum drivers have been fleecing the commuters by charging exorbitant fares, especially from elderly passengers and schoolgoers. The lack of regulation has only worsened the issue.During his visit to Dharwad in Jan last year, transport minister Ramalinga Reddy had assured that the upgraded CBT would be functional within a year. However, given the current pace of construction, sources say it could take another 8-10 months before the terminal is fully operational.A senior department official, speaking on condition of anonymity, attributed the delay initially to technical issues and later to extended monsoon rains. “The work only picked up momentum after senior officials reprimanded the contractor. We expect the construction to be completed by Jan, with operations likely to commence in Feb,” he said.In the meantime, passengers have been left to contend with poor facilities at temporary shelters that are often waterlogged during the rainy season.”Senior citizens have slipped and injured themselves. The delay in CBT construction has only helped autorickshaws exploit the situation,” said Maruti Mane, a commuter.The transport department had envisioned the CBT as a modern, multi-storey terminal equipped with commuter-friendly amenities and commercial spaces to generate additional revenue. With over 60 city buses operating from the terminus and thousands of daily users, the need for a functional, centralised bus stand is critical.Despite growing demand, no new buses have been introduced, paving the way for private operators and autorickshaws to dominate the transit landscape. While seat-sharing autos have become popular among commuters, this shift has caused friction between NWKRTC conductors, bus drivers, and auto drivers, ultimately hurting public transport revenues.NWKRTC managing director Priyanga M said the construction has gained momentum and the revamped City Bus Terminus will be dedicated to the public by Sept.